Former Premier League star baffled by Arsenal's pursuit of Noni Madueke and claims key academy talent could leave as a result of Chelsea star's arrival

Madueke, who netted 11 goals under Enzo Maresca during the 2024-25 campaign, is set for a fresh challenge in the English top-flight. The recent £60m ($81m) arrival of Joao Pedro from Brighton at Stamford Bridge has put him on the fringes, prompting Arsenal to act.

Speaking to bestbettingsites.com, Hutchinson expressed doubt over where the Chelsea winger would fit into Mikel Arteta’s plans.

"I don’t understand this transfer,” he said. “From an Arsenal point of view, he plays where Bukayo Saka does, so it’ll be tough for him to get games.”

Saka has been a consistent force on Arsenal’s right flank and one of Arteta’s most important players. Bringing in another right-sided winger with such a high price tag has raised eyebrows, especially considering the squad’s existing depth in that area.

Hutchison also pointed to the potential consequences of the transfer on rising star Ethan Nwaneri. The 17-year-old forward made an impressive 37 appearances for Arsenal last season and is considered one of their brightest academy products. There are growing concerns among supporters that the signing of Madueke could stunt the development of Nwaneri, potentially pushing the teenager to explore options elsewhere if his pathway to first-team football becomes blocked.

“The competition, of course, makes sense, especially if Saka is injured, but they have Ethan Nwaneri,” added Hutchison. “His contract is running down now, and I’d have been tempted to use money earmarked for Madueke to get a deal done for Nwaneri instead.”

Madueke's acquisition continues a recent trend of Arsenal recruiting players directly from Chelsea. Kai Havertz and Kepa Arrizabalaga are already part of the Gunners' squad, while midfielder Jorginho had a short stint in red before moving to Flamengo earlier this summer. However, Hutchison offered a word of caution, noting that not every switch across London has gone smoothly.

"Spending £50 million on Madeuke, who hasn’t been brilliant for Chelsea, is strange,” he added. “The Raheem Sterling deal definitely didn’t work, and you worry if this is another player coming from Stamford Bridge to sit on the bench.”

From Arsenal’s standpoint, Arteta may be considering the move as a way to increase squad depth and tactical flexibility, particularly if the club wants to compete seriously on multiple fronts. While Madueke’s talent is not in dispute, his potential fit in a team built around Saka is far from clear. Whether this move strengthens Arsenal’s title ambitions or merely adds to their wage bill remains to be seen.